NAF crushes bandits’ hideout, frees 76 in Katsina

The Katsina State Government has confirmed that a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike destroyed the hideout of a notorious bandits’ kingpin, Babaro, at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area.

Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday. He said the targeted operation, carried out in the early hours, also led to the rescue of 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.

Babaro was identified as the mastermind of the recent attack on Unguwan Mantau in Malumfashi LGA, where several people were killed and many others abducted. According to Mu’azu, all the abducted victims have now been freed, though one child tragically died during the ordeal.

“The strike on Pauwa Hill neutralised one of Babaro’s strongest bases, a long-standing source of terror to surrounding communities,” the commissioner stated.

He explained that the operation was part of a wider strategy to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in the state.

Mu’azu commended the NAF, Nigerian Army, and other security agencies for their professionalism and sacrifices, assuring that the government would continue to provide logistics, intelligence, and community support to sustain the gains.

He also urged residents to remain vigilant and share timely information to aid ongoing security efforts.